African Reservations

Lake Kariba, a vast wilderness area, previously inhabited by thousands of animals, is today an inland sea covering nearly 6 000 square km. It was created by the building of Kariba Dam for the production of hydro-electric power. Animals under threat from the rising waters of the dam were not left to fend for themselves; “Operation Noah” ensured that over 5 000 animals, including more than 44 black rhino, were rescued. This vast stretch of water, studded with islands and surrounded by mountains and forests, today supports a large animal population on its shoreline.

The Matusadona National Park on the southern shore of Lake Kariba can be reached by boat or light aircraft from the town of Kariba. The Sanyati River on the border of the park flows through a gorge which is navigable for several kilometres inland. The annual international tiger-fishing tournament is held here. The village of Kariba has a number of hotels and there are a variety of safari lodges on the shores of the lake. Over 40 houseboats, each accommodating from four to 12 passengers, are available for charter. Lake Kariba is the largest man-made lake on the African continent after Egypt’s Aswan Dam and Cahora Bassa in Mozambique.